Votive Plaque with Three-Headed Deity

Art Historical Context

This petite clay votive plaque, measuring just 2¼ x 2¼ inches, hails from Tibet and dates to the 10th–16th century, a formative era for Tibetan Buddhism. Crafted by an unknown artist, it depicts a striking three-headed deity, a often symbolizing multifaceted divine powers in tantric traditions—uniting wisdom, compassion, and wrathful protection in one form. Such small sculptures were cherished as devotional objects, offered at shrines or carried by pilgrims for personal blessings and spiritual safeguarding. Made from molded clay, the plaque exemplifies accessible artistry in medieval Tibet, w...